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28 Oct, 2019 by David
I interviewed several attorneys and I feel lucky to have found Ed and Lauren. They were always professional, explained possible and likely outcomes with clarity and helped me to not lose my mind with worry. They were available to answer questions (when needed) and I always felt like I had the best representation possible. Given the facts in my case, I am really pleased with the outcome and would hire them again without hesitation, should the need arise.
Ed's past experience as an MVA judge not only helped me understand a complicated process, but he also saved my license (without any restrictions) with equal parts skill and luck.
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12 Jun, 2019 by Natalie
Edward and Lauren had my best interest at heart and made sure I was aware of every possible outcome. They brought up strong argumentative points and worked well as a team.
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23 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
It was my first DWI offense and hopefully my last. I was leaving a concert after having some drinks. I felt okay to drive and the concert wasn't far from my house. As I was leaving I forgot to put on my headlights. I saw the cops following me and they eventually pulled me over. The officer asked if I had drinks and I said yes. He asked me to step out the car and I did all the field tests. After doing a breathalyzer they told me they were gonna take me in. At the station I blew .06 the state tried to get me for DWI which is the lesser offense. They claimed I was buzzed driving. Mr Taytor knows the law very well and he is very familiar with all the judges. And more importantly he knows how to the system works. The officers had body cam footage which they failed to present the first court appearance. So Mr Tayter asked for the case to be postponed until they give him the footage to review. The second court date came and the state handed him the footage as he walked into the courtroom giving him no time to prepare beforehand. He asked the judge for the case to be dismissed because the state had ample time to give him the footage but gives it to him as we walked in. And the judge went for it. Case got dismissed and is now expunged. I ended up finding out that I did very well on my field tests and I was upset that I had to go through all of this. But I'm glad that I chose him to be my lawyer. Because he fought for me. Whereas other lawyers I went to wanted me to take a PBJ which is not something I needed on my record
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30 Aug, 2023 by Didi mcelroy
Jack Willis is one of our go-to tester attorneys. He is capable, reliable, effective and provides great legal work product at a good value.
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16 May, 2023 by Robert wilkin
Jack Willis is a great person and a great lawyer. Blessed to be able to have his support and guidance through difficult times. Two thumbs up!
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09 Oct, 2022 by David moore
31 Aug, 2021 by Jacob
David took the time to reach out. I have difficulties talking to people and communicating and correspondence due to my anxiety but David made me feel alright the entire time. David also took the time to talk to me and my little family. he also took very good care of me the entirety and made sure to continually check on me. I would recommend David to anyone who feels that they need a 10/10 lawyer.
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09 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
David was very professional and did a super job of representing me to defend a traffic citation. He was easy to access and responded to questions in a timely manner. I strongly recommend him.
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15 Aug, 2019 by Veronica
On multiple occasions he has helped our company drivers with traffic citations often having them dismissed without a court appearance. Down to earth, talks to you personally. Wonderful guy, wish he represented other areas as well.
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26 Sep, 2018 by Jared
Robert Keehner is by far the most caring and intelligent lawyer that I have encountered. He has helped several friends as well as myself. In each case, he is always available to answer your phone calls at any given time. Most lawyers will not do this. He is also a fighter for you and your case. He will advise you and ultimately do what you are asking from him. My experience with other lawyers has shown that they just want the money and really don’t care about your situation. Other lawyers don't even get to know you by name, your just another client. Robert is the opposite. I recommend Robert Keehner as your only option.
By far the best lawyer in the DMV.
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22 Apr, 2018 by Jac e. knust
I have known Rob Keehner as a colleague for approximately forty years. He has an excellent reputation for being a tremendous trial attorney, especially in criminal cases. He has an superb knowledge of the law and expresses care and concern for each one of his clients. He seems to always achieve excellent results. I have litigated cases with him where I have been the attorney on the other side and he is a pleasure to work with. He works very hard and is very resourceful. If you are looking for an excellent attorney you cannot go wrong for choosing Rob Keehner.
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22 Oct, 2014 by Christopher
Summer 2014 I was in Baltimore, MD for an internship at Hopkins. Two weeks before I left for home, I was driving on a beautiful lush green hillside soaking up nature. Being a current resident of Los Angeles, CA I don't get much of mother nature, so I really appreciated the greenery in MD. As I was driving on the hillside my beautiful moment with mother nature was rudely interrupted by the high pitched sound and bright lights of a buzz-kill cop. I was furious but mostly scared knowing I would have to tell my mom I got a speeding ticket. I soon came to the conclusion that I had three routes I could take with the ticket.
1.) Bite the bullet and pay the fine.
2.) Run to Mexico and drink Dos Equis with the most interesting man.
OR
3.) Take Judge Judy to Law School.
As much as I love a good street taco in Mexico, I quickly decided this was not an option. Now I'm faced with either surrendering, like a fat kid loves cake, or take the law into my own hands the same way our forefathers once did with the Queen of Tea Lovers. I quickly decided I was going to get some hot shot lawyer on a college budget none the less to dual it out with Judge Judy. I quickly asked Siri to get me the phone numbers of every traffic lawyer within a 20 mile radius of me. After reading some of the reviews the Top 20 lawyers were called by yours truly. Within the first five calls the option of handing a fat check over to the USofA seemed more reasonable than what some of these lawyers thought of a college kids budget. I decided to persevere and soon called the delightful Gary Wiessner. 10 seconds into the phone call Gary went from a 4th rounder (because I thought that was all I could afford) to being at the very top of my draft board. After two 360 spins by the planet earth I decided Gary was going to be my representative so I gave him a call. Not only was Gary within my budget he held my hand every step of the way. Gary was very professional on the phone, in person, and in emails; if I had a question he would swiftly get back to me. The best part of all because of the decades of experience Gary had he knew exactly what game-plan to call while at the courtroom. I'm not going to lie I was very scared just handing Gary money and trusting a lawyer to go to court and not just runaway with my money. Gary was able to get me out of the ticket, so my insurance would not find out because in the end that's why I decided to put the Law into my own hands, because as the great GENERAL GEORGE S. PATTON, JR. once said, "A man must know his destiny. if he does not recognize it, then he is lost. By this I mean, once, twice, or at the very most, three times, fate will reach out and tap a man on the shoulder. if he has the imagination, he will turn around and fate will point out to him what fork in the road he should take, if he has the guts, he will take it."
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21 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Gilbert was retained as our attorney to provide support as we navigated an unpleasant dispute with a prior landlord. His knowledge, professionalism, and communication skills proved to be key in swiftly carrying our case to resolution without litigation. We quickly became very comfortable with him as the result of his ability to build a close relationship with us and demonstrate that he was there to help. I highly recommend working with Mr. Gilbert and would not hesitate to hire him again.
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24 Oct, 2022 by Michelle
I highly recommend Mark Muffoletto. From the initial consultation through the end of my case, he was upfront, knowledgeable and honest. During the initial consultation, he was very attentive and spent a long time going through the details with me. He explained everything in layman's terms and made sure I understood and was comfortable with the process. He properly set my expectations every step of the way. His knowledge of the law and extensive experience made me feel confident in my selection and ultimately resulted in a positive outcome.
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31 Aug, 2011 by Mike & janice
Over the past few years we have worked closely with David in matters ranging from past divorce concerns to our current case which is an automobile accident that took place some time ago. Mr. Titman’s advice has been very positive and very timely. Advice from the very day of the accident (when you need to make contact with your attorney) was very clear and put us at ease while we sorted out other issues of concern. We would have MOST CERTAINLY made mistakes if we had not been wise enough to call him right away. I/we recommend him for anyone that may have suffered an injury among other legal remedies. He speaks clearly and will not run circles around you like some of those squirrelly lawyers you see on TV while you watch the Price Is Right. We recommend him because of our confidence in him to get the job done right.
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23 May, 2022 by Robin howard
23 May, 2022 by Robin howard
31 Jul, 2024 by Sara breidenstein
Incredible law office. Went above and beyond for me and got me exactly the result I needed.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Laurie tucker
Highly recommend this law firm. Both Gwen and Ashley were a pleasure to deal with.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Christine forsythe
Firm was very direct on explaining what type of bankruptcy I would need to file what the firm was going to do They have reasonable price and Mr Ominsky will advise you on the next steps to financial freedom thank you Mr Ominsky Ashely and Ms Gwen on your exceptional service Christine
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03 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Madden is an exceptional, first-rate lawyer. He was extremely knowledgeable and professional when handling my case. He was always prompt and responsive, and he sincerely cared about the outcome of my case, which he was able to get dismissed prior to the date of my scheduled court appearance. I'm so glad that he represented me, and I highly recommend him to others.
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29 May, 2023 by Nicholas
Attorney Madden is my neighbor and family friend which leads me to say he is a truly great and honest lawyer. He helped me through my DUI charge when I had no idea how to handle it. Attorney Madden also helped me when I was on the stand and super nervous. 5 stars for sure! Had the best outcome possible and it wouldn't have happened without Mr.Madden.
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11 Apr, 2023 by Jason
Mr Madden had my entire case dismissed, and I was in and out of the court within 30 minutes. The long part was waiting for the Judge.
Fee was well below what I could of gotten if I hadn't gotten a lawyer.
My Family and I Thank you!
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03 Mar, 2020 by Susan mcgowan
Raymond Carignan is a very professional hard working lawyer and kept me informed on the progress of my accident case. I was very happy with the settlement outcome of my case and would highly recommend him to anyone who needs an accident lawyer.
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23 Jan, 2020 by Michael d (shane)
Good guy hired for being naive of the driving laws
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08 Oct, 2019 by Destiny mccall
10 Aug, 2024 by Tara randolph
Predators like that movie “I Care”.
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08 Aug, 2024 by April bridges
The experience I have had with this firm for my mother has been awful. This firm claims it works for the best interest of my mother. But in her case they care nothing about a person wellbeing or to keep black families together. My mother almost died from a fentanyl overdose under the care of the state. That her so called lawyers agreed to do!! I took care of my mother over 20 years that didn’t matter to this firm. Anything negative they try to use that instead of really caring for her. I’m sure they worked with the racist social worker at the hospital to make it that way. Good Job King Hall!!
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02 Apr, 2024 by Pamela neuberth-ray
Excellent attorneys
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10 Aug, 2024 by Tara randolph
Predators like that movie “I Care”.
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08 Aug, 2024 by April bridges
The experience I have had with this firm for my mother has been awful. This firm claims it works for the best interest of my mother. But in her case they care nothing about a person wellbeing or to keep black families together. My mother almost died from a fentanyl overdose under the care of the state. That her so called lawyers agreed to do!! I took care of my mother over 20 years that didn’t matter to this firm. Anything negative they try to use that instead of really caring for her. I’m sure they worked with the racist social worker at the hospital to make it that way. Good Job King Hall!!
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02 Apr, 2024 by Pamela neuberth-ray
Excellent attorneys
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24 Jan, 2023 by Jessica maddox
My boyfriend REGRETS hiring Lisa. She lost his entire case and he went from seeing his daughter every other weekend for the last 5 years to only getting to see her for a week at Christmas and 2 weeks in the summer.
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29 May, 2022 by Sherrie tindal
Lisa Goldblatt is amazing lawyer who truly cares about her clients and making sure they have the best representation in their case. In 2016/2017 Ms. Goldblatt went into court and made sure I was identified as a Defacto parent to my son, which gave me some parental rights. Ms. Goldblatt later in 2019 helped me get full, sole, physical, legal custody of my son. Thanks to Ms. Goldblatt my son and I are together still, we’re happy and he’s thriving beyond my expectations. I can’t thank Ms. Goldblatt enough for always making sure my sons best interests were and are met. I’m eternally grateful to her for all she’s done for my family. I’d highly recommend Ms. Goldblatt.
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25 Feb, 2022 by Xxx xxx
20 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Coyne is an exemplar attorney. He is very kind, understanding and a great listener. I would recommend him to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney!
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20 Apr, 2024 by Andrew van
Absolutely amazing attorney! Good representation isn’t cheap. Don’t short yourself
Use Mark Muffoletto
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24 Jan, 2024 by Sl p
Outstanding attorney! I wholeheartedly recommend. As someone prone to nervousness, especially in challenging situations, my anxiety can be overwhelming. Mark skillfully put me at ease, providing a sense of safety. He outlined the best/worst-case scenario, kept me updated at every stage, and ultimately achieved the most favorable outcome for me. Just an added bonus, he’s a genuinely nice person as well. So kick a^^ attorney and person!
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19 Jan, 2024 by Risa garon
The National Family Resiliency Center Board of Directors and staff thank the Howard County Bar Association and Howard County Family Law section for sponsoring the annual Crab Feast last fall. NFRC is grateful to the Howard County Bar Association and Family Law section for selecting NFRC as one of the recipients of the proceeds. We are so fortunate to have the support of the legal community to continue to provide the services and programs offered by our center.
NFRC thanks Ryan Dymek, Fred Spencer, grill masters, Kellie Lego and Gina Wrobel who continue to coordinate this wonderful event, Platinum Level Sponsors, Amos Perrick and Weinberg and Schwartz. Many thanks to Thomas Mulinazzi, President of the Howard County Bar Association, Lisa Mohink, Alisa Cummins and Katherine Haladay. Thank you to all members of the Howard County Bar Association.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Amos whitney
Our community is lucky to have an organization that is so dedicated to giving back to the public it serves. There is constant fundraising going on for disadvantaged and underserved groups, and lots of opportunities to volunteer.
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29 Nov, 2023 by April lee
HCBA is a wonderful group of caring members who do so much to support marginalized and at-risk residents in this County. Their members volunteer in many capacities for Columbia Community Care in our mission to fight food insecurity. We are very grateful for the HCBA's commitment to uplift the lives of our neighbors in need.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Risa garon
The National Family Resiliency Center Board of Directors and staff thank the Howard County Bar Association and Howard County Family Law section for sponsoring the annual Crab Feast last fall. NFRC is grateful to the Howard County Bar Association and Family Law section for selecting NFRC as one of the recipients of the proceeds. We are so fortunate to have the support of the legal community to continue to provide the services and programs offered by our center.
NFRC thanks Ryan Dymek, Fred Spencer, grill masters, Kellie Lego and Gina Wrobel who continue to coordinate this wonderful event, Platinum Level Sponsors, Amos Perrick and Weinberg and Schwartz. Many thanks to Thomas Mulinazzi, President of the Howard County Bar Association, Lisa Mohink, Alisa Cummins and Katherine Haladay. Thank you to all members of the Howard County Bar Association.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Amos whitney
Our community is lucky to have an organization that is so dedicated to giving back to the public it serves. There is constant fundraising going on for disadvantaged and underserved groups, and lots of opportunities to volunteer.
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29 Nov, 2023 by April lee
HCBA is a wonderful group of caring members who do so much to support marginalized and at-risk residents in this County. Their members volunteer in many capacities for Columbia Community Care in our mission to fight food insecurity. We are very grateful for the HCBA's commitment to uplift the lives of our neighbors in need.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Risa garon
The National Family Resiliency Center Board of Directors and staff thank the Howard County Bar Association and Howard County Family Law section for sponsoring the annual Crab Feast last fall. NFRC is grateful to the Howard County Bar Association and Family Law section for selecting NFRC as one of the recipients of the proceeds. We are so fortunate to have the support of the legal community to continue to provide the services and programs offered by our center.
NFRC thanks Ryan Dymek, Fred Spencer, grill masters, Kellie Lego and Gina Wrobel who continue to coordinate this wonderful event, Platinum Level Sponsors, Amos Perrick and Weinberg and Schwartz. Many thanks to Thomas Mulinazzi, President of the Howard County Bar Association, Lisa Mohink, Alisa Cummins and Katherine Haladay. Thank you to all members of the Howard County Bar Association.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Amos whitney
Our community is lucky to have an organization that is so dedicated to giving back to the public it serves. There is constant fundraising going on for disadvantaged and underserved groups, and lots of opportunities to volunteer.
Read more
29 Nov, 2023 by April lee
HCBA is a wonderful group of caring members who do so much to support marginalized and at-risk residents in this County. Their members volunteer in many capacities for Columbia Community Care in our mission to fight food insecurity. We are very grateful for the HCBA's commitment to uplift the lives of our neighbors in need.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Risa garon
The National Family Resiliency Center Board of Directors and staff thank the Howard County Bar Association and Howard County Family Law section for sponsoring the annual Crab Feast last fall. NFRC is grateful to the Howard County Bar Association and Family Law section for selecting NFRC as one of the recipients of the proceeds. We are so fortunate to have the support of the legal community to continue to provide the services and programs offered by our center.
NFRC thanks Ryan Dymek, Fred Spencer, grill masters, Kellie Lego and Gina Wrobel who continue to coordinate this wonderful event, Platinum Level Sponsors, Amos Perrick and Weinberg and Schwartz. Many thanks to Thomas Mulinazzi, President of the Howard County Bar Association, Lisa Mohink, Alisa Cummins and Katherine Haladay. Thank you to all members of the Howard County Bar Association.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Amos whitney
Our community is lucky to have an organization that is so dedicated to giving back to the public it serves. There is constant fundraising going on for disadvantaged and underserved groups, and lots of opportunities to volunteer.
Read more
29 Nov, 2023 by April lee
HCBA is a wonderful group of caring members who do so much to support marginalized and at-risk residents in this County. Their members volunteer in many capacities for Columbia Community Care in our mission to fight food insecurity. We are very grateful for the HCBA's commitment to uplift the lives of our neighbors in need.
Read more
19 Jan, 2024 by Risa garon
The National Family Resiliency Center Board of Directors and staff thank the Howard County Bar Association and Howard County Family Law section for sponsoring the annual Crab Feast last fall. NFRC is grateful to the Howard County Bar Association and Family Law section for selecting NFRC as one of the recipients of the proceeds. We are so fortunate to have the support of the legal community to continue to provide the services and programs offered by our center.
NFRC thanks Ryan Dymek, Fred Spencer, grill masters, Kellie Lego and Gina Wrobel who continue to coordinate this wonderful event, Platinum Level Sponsors, Amos Perrick and Weinberg and Schwartz. Many thanks to Thomas Mulinazzi, President of the Howard County Bar Association, Lisa Mohink, Alisa Cummins and Katherine Haladay. Thank you to all members of the Howard County Bar Association.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Amos whitney
Our community is lucky to have an organization that is so dedicated to giving back to the public it serves. There is constant fundraising going on for disadvantaged and underserved groups, and lots of opportunities to volunteer.
Read more
29 Nov, 2023 by April lee
HCBA is a wonderful group of caring members who do so much to support marginalized and at-risk residents in this County. Their members volunteer in many capacities for Columbia Community Care in our mission to fight food insecurity. We are very grateful for the HCBA's commitment to uplift the lives of our neighbors in need.
Read more
19 Jan, 2024 by Risa garon
The National Family Resiliency Center Board of Directors and staff thank the Howard County Bar Association and Howard County Family Law section for sponsoring the annual Crab Feast last fall. NFRC is grateful to the Howard County Bar Association and Family Law section for selecting NFRC as one of the recipients of the proceeds. We are so fortunate to have the support of the legal community to continue to provide the services and programs offered by our center.
NFRC thanks Ryan Dymek, Fred Spencer, grill masters, Kellie Lego and Gina Wrobel who continue to coordinate this wonderful event, Platinum Level Sponsors, Amos Perrick and Weinberg and Schwartz. Many thanks to Thomas Mulinazzi, President of the Howard County Bar Association, Lisa Mohink, Alisa Cummins and Katherine Haladay. Thank you to all members of the Howard County Bar Association.
Read more
30 Nov, 2023 by Amos whitney
Our community is lucky to have an organization that is so dedicated to giving back to the public it serves. There is constant fundraising going on for disadvantaged and underserved groups, and lots of opportunities to volunteer.
Read more
29 Nov, 2023 by April lee
HCBA is a wonderful group of caring members who do so much to support marginalized and at-risk residents in this County. Their members volunteer in many capacities for Columbia Community Care in our mission to fight food insecurity. We are very grateful for the HCBA's commitment to uplift the lives of our neighbors in need.
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06 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
I used this attorney 3 times. The first time was a hands down case that could've been won without lawyers. The 2nd was a bankruptcy that he continued to tell me to ignore the bills coming in. Turns out, he not only was wrong... he didn't bother to look. I got sued after the bankruptcy for over $7000 (from an original $2500) because of his advice and he never took one ounce of responsibility for telling me it was included in the bankruptcy and to continue to ignore it, even after the other party filed in court. I used him again (before I realized all this mess was happening with the bankruptcy for family court issues. All I wanted was a SIMPLE custody order, child support amount, and any other tiny simple things that must be included in such an order. There was NOTHING at all somplicated in the case. He was non-attentive, missed over all the important details, and although I did get a bit more time with my children, all of the time he spent (eating up the retainer and more) supposedly coming to an agreement with the other party, it turns out that it was written up and signed by attorneys completely different than what we had agreed upon in the first place. My child support is higher than it legally should be. My visitation is less than it legally could have been. I owed him over $1000 more once it was all said and done and I left there with more questionable legal holes than I had before I had gone to court in the first place. So, now, the family court coordinator has suggested that we take this back to court for resolution. This attorney doesn't care about your case. He just wants to take your money, not even look at the documents (or at least barely brief them) that you send him, go to court, wisp you in and out and leave you with whatever you come back with. He does not HELP you He doesn't REPRESENT YOU. Not all court orders come out the way you want them to, but the attorney is supposed to REPRESENT their client. He DOES NOT@!!!!! BEWARE!!! If you use this attorney, don't expect representation!!
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27 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Bill did an excellent job of guiding me through the divorce process, explaining what I could/should expect, without trying to push me to "hold out for more." He was very respectful of my financial situation and my uncontested divorce was relatively inexpensive.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
